Savannah Mathis, a 21-year-old African American nursing student from Tampa, FL, tragically lost her life on December 1, 2021. Savannah was driving near Julian B. Lane Park with her sister when their car was sprayed with bullets. The incident, which occurred around 8 p.m., resulted in Savannah's death and left her sister injured but alive. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity, with the perpetrator believing that Savannah was someone else.
The Tampa Police Department arrested two
men in connection with Savannah's death. Vakarvery Scott, who was 22 years old at the time of his sentencing, was convicted of first-degree premeditated murder, shooting at, within, or into a vehicle, and attempted first-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder charge, along with additional sentences for the other charges. Scott testified that he believed he was the target of a drive-by shooting and acted in self-defense, but surveillance footage and witness testimonies contradicted his claims.
Savannah's family faced Scott in court during his sentencing, expressing their grief and the impact of their loss. Her mother, LaMaria Smith, spoke about the heartbreak and the need to forgive Scott, despite the pain he caused. Savannah's sister, Nena Mathis, who was in the car during the shooting, also provided a victim impact statement, emphasizing the senselessness of the violence that took her sister's life.
In addition to Scott, another man, Alfonso Evans, was arrested in connection with Savannah's murder. His case is still pending, according to court records. The family has been vocal about the consequences of gun violence, with LaMaria Smith working to raise awareness and support other families affected by similar tragedies. Savannah's legacy continues through her family's efforts to combat gun violence and honor her memory.
